Title
Authorizing the Department of Parks and Recreation and the Como Park Zoo and Conservatory to accept a grant of $400 from the Mid-America Orchid Congress for the purchase of orchid plants in the year 2025.
Body
WHEREAS, the Mid-America Orchid Congress is a regional organization that promotes orchid conservation, education, and appreciation, and provides support to public institutions dedicated to the display and preservation of orchids; and
WHEREAS, the Mid-America Orchid Congress offers a yearly grant of up to $400 for the purpose of orchid conservation; and
WHEREAS, the Como Park Zoo and Conservatory, operated by the Department of Parks and Recreation, serves a vital public purpose by providing year-round educational, cultural, and environmental enrichment through its living plant collections and horticultural displays; and
WHEREAS, the Como Park Zoo and Conservatory would utilize this grant money to purchase species of orchids to add to their existing neo-tropical orchid collection; and
WHEREAS, increasing the number of species of orchids to be seen in the public displays at the Marjorie McNeely Conservatory will enhance educational offerings and expand opportunities for public enjoyment and leisure; and
WHEREAS, the City of Saint Paul is not expected to match the grant funds; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, that the City Council authorizes the Como Park Zoo and Conservatory staff to accept a grant of $400 from the Mid-America Orchid Congress for the purchase of species orchids in the year 2025.